Portable Health Files Improve Quality of Care and Health Outcomes: a Randomized Controlled Trial

The PHF trial will assess the acceptability and long term outcomes resulting from the usage of electronic (carried by the patient on a USB memory device) and paper portable health files in a population with high intensity use of medical services. The rationale is that use of the portable health files provides a conduit of direct communication among health care providers of a patient's important health care information and this leads to better care and patient outcomes. Primary hypothesis: Addition of a patient-held portable health file (PHF) to usual care improves patient outcome and quality-of-life compared to usual care alone. Secondary hypothesis: Addition of patient-held portable health file (PHF) to usual care is acceptable and satisfactory to patients and their health care providers.